At risk are middle-aged or elderly patients with hyperopia, anatomically small anterior chambers, cataracts, or abnormal iris structure
Most episodes of angle closure occur spontaneously; very few episodes are precipitated by topical pupil-dilating parasympatholytic agents, and almost none by orally administered parasympatholytic agents—despite drug insert warnings
Prompt diagnosis and treatment are critical because high intraocular pressure can damage optic nerve function irreversibly
Treatment by ophthalmologist includes administering topical, oral, or intravenous agents to lower intraocular pressure and performing laser or surgical iridotomy
These measures usually successful in lowering intraocular pressure; if not, filtering surgery necessary
Vision will be preserved if intraocular pressure has not been too high for too long
